Net Aware update from the NSPCC

28 April 2017

Net Aware, produced by O2 and NSPCC, is a guide for parents to 39 of the most popular sites, apps and games that young people use. Using reviews from adults and children, it helps parents decide if a site is right for their child, if it’s age appropriate and explores what risks they might encounter, enabling parents or professionals to help keep their children safe online. The NSPCC have just launched a refreshed Net Aware site.

The updated site is packed full of reviews of new and emerging apps such as Musical.ly, Periscope and Kiwi, as well as featuring big names such as Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat. It’s simple and easy to use, making it easier for parents to stay up to date with their child’s online world. It’s also available as an app.

What they found

This year, NSPCC and O2 have spoken to 1,696 young people and 674 parents to hear their thoughts about each of the sites, apps and games. Young people said that they enjoy the opportunity to have fun online, communicate with friends and to express themselves creatively. However, many children and young people were also coming across inappropriate content on the sites, apps and games that they are using. 1 in 3 young people reported seeing violence and hatred on the sites they reviewed, and 1 in 5 reported sexual content.

Parents can find out more about these risks, as well as ways to help keep their children safe online, by visiting Net Aware.

What else is new?

Net Aware has also been updated with some great new features this year including:

The News Page: This area of the site will highlight relevant online safety news and developments, including warnings on potentially concerning apps, such as Yellow, helping you to stay up-to-date.

O2 Guru Top Tips: For every site on Net Aware, O2 Gurus have provided their number one safety tip. This could be information on blocking, private account settings or in-app purchases.

Safety and Support Section: Judging the safety of an app is now even easier. All reviewed apps, sites and games now have a safety and support rating, as well as feedback from parents.

Want more support?

For more information on online safety you can call the O2 & NSPCC Online Safety Helpline and speak to an expert advisor for free on 0808 800 5002. You can also visit an O2 Guru in store, even if you’re not an O2 customer.